Step Inside the Vault: Afternoon Tea at Honey Restaurant, Hotel Gotham Manchester
Hidden behind the bold façade of one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings, Hotel Gotham invites guests to step into a world of 1920s glamour and indulge in a seriously stylish affair: the Lutyens Afternoon Tea. Named in honour of Sir Edwin Lutyens, the building’s original architect, this is not your average tea-and-scones experience—it’s a decadent event crafted for those who appreciate detail, drama, and deliciousness.
A Setting That Tells a Story
Every inch of Honey Restaurant is wrapped in theatrical flair. From the dark polished woods and gold accents to the Art Deco curves and plush leather banquettes, the space exudes old-school luxury. The setting, inspired by the building’s banking past, feels like a well-kept secret shared only among those who know where to look.
Afternoon Tea here isn’t merely served, it’s staged. There’s a deliberate pace, a rhythm that encourages you to slow down and savour.
The Lutyens Afternoon Tea Menu
The journey begins with a tower of sandwiches, each one boasting a flavour profile that’s bold yet balanced:
Chicken with Green Pesto & Rocket – earthy and peppery
Cheddar with Sun-Dried Tomato – rich and slightly tangy
Cucumber with Lemon Mascarpone – fresh with citrus notes
Smoked Salmon with Red Onion Pickle – a nod to classic pairings with a zing
Then comes the main act: the patisserie. Artfully plated and seasonally inspired, expect a line-up of:
A Strawberry & Rosemary Frangipane Tart that walks the line between sweet and herbal
A Pavlova with Pineapple & Mango Salsa that’s as vibrant as it is light
A Passion Fruit & Chocolate Macaron that hits all the right notes
A Plum & Madagascan Vanilla Upside-Down Cake, rich, sticky, comforting
Of course, no afternoon tea would be complete without scones. Gotham serves both plain and sultana, still warm from the oven, alongside proper clotted cream and fruit preserve.
Drinks Fit for High Society
Choose from Planters’ Teas, a collection that includes award-winning blends like:
Earl Grey with real bergamot oil
Planters’ Mistress, a citrus-scented golden tea
Ceylon Afternoon, light and floral
Not a tea drinker? You can opt for Prosecco or Champagne, depending on how celebratory you’re feeling.
The Practical Bits
Price: £39 for the classic tea, £48 with Prosecco, £54 with Champagne
Bookings: Highly recommended, this is a popular destination for both locals and city break travellers
Dietaries: Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are available with prior notice
Who’s It For?
This isn’t a fussy, pinky-raised afternoon tea. It’s for:
– Design lovers
– Foodies
– Anyone with an eye for flair
– Visitors wanting to experience the indulgent side of Manchester
– Locals in search of a special treat
Address :
100 King Street, Manchester, M2 4WU
Opening Hours :
Daily
12:30PM – 4:00PM
Reviews
We finally redeemed a gift at Hotel Gotham given to us for our anniversary whereby we enjoyed Champagne afternoon tea. Everything on offer was gorgeous and we had the nice little touch of an anniversary plate. Ali our waiter was fabulous and very attentive.
Came here for afternoon tea for my birthday. I loved everything about it. The service was fantastic and really attentive. The food doesn’t rush out; so I wouldn’t advice going really hungry. But we were really full by the end of it.
The best Gluten Free Afternoon Tea I have had! We visited for a champagne afternoon tea for two. Both Myself and my Wife are Gluten Free and I have to admit this was the best GF afternoon tea I have had. I would highly recommend.
The best Afternoon Tea we have had by far! Absolutely lovely and would recommend to everyone. Beautiful hotel and setting to eat. Staff were just lovely and made my mums birthday celebration extra special. Would definitely go again.
We pre-booked afternoon tea (one vegetarian). The restaurant was nicely laid out and had great views of Manchester and beyond. Our food and drink was amazing, the staff are all lovely and very helpful. We will return!
The Lowry Restaurant
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Lowry Hotel, served in the elegant River Restaurant overlooking the Irwell. Expect classic sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and exquisite pastries, paired with premium teas. Optional Champagne or cocktails add extra sparkle. Ideal for romantic dates, relaxed afternoons with friends, or special occasions.
Grill On The Square
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Grill on the Square in Warrington, served Monday to Saturday for £24.95. Includes sandwiches, pastries, sweet treats, and scones with tea or coffee. Vegetarian options available. Or upgrade to Bottomless Prosecco Saturdays for £35. Perfect for social gatherings or family outings.
Refuge Machester
Afternoon Tea at The Refuge by Volta blends bold Northern flavours with bohemian luxury in Manchester’s iconic Principal Hotel. Expect hearty savouries, warm scones, and creative desserts, all with a twist. Enjoy loose-leaf teas or upgrade with fizz or cocktails. Served in their vibrant Winter Garden, it’s ideal for stylish, flavour-filled celebrations. Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Sunset Manchester
Afternoon Tea at Sunset by Australasia is a bold, pink-hued experience with pan-Asian flair. Expect bao buns, sushi, and delicate desserts, served with rosé prosecco or cocktails. Perfect for celebrations in an ultra-glam, Instagram-ready setting. Vegetarian and vegan options available. A stylish twist on tradition.
Fress Manchester
Enjoy a modern twist on Afternoon Tea at Fress Manchester in the Northern Quarter. Expect gourmet sandwiches, mini quiches, sweet treats, and classic scones, all paired with teas, coffees, or mocktails. Ideal for casual catch-ups, dates, or celebrations. Dietary needs catered for with notice.
Hey Little Cup Cake Shop
Afternoon Tea at Hey Little Cupcake! in Spinningfields is a playful, family-friendly treat. Enjoy mini cupcakes, sandwiches, scones, and themed extras like their Beauty and the Beast experience. Prices from £15 adults, £10 children. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a whimsical day out.
You can also follow us on Pinterest for more afternoon tea inspiration
Disclaimer : We often review or link to products & services from Amazon or other affiliate partners. If you click on one of our product links and make a purchase, we may earn a small commision.